ROTAX 125 MAX EVO
We all love adventure and thrill rides, don’t we? Imagine your watercraft or your kart, or your snowmobile for that matter. Enjoying blue-hued waves, pacing at a go-kart race, or even riding the snowmobile in chilling winter - they’re all equally fun activities.
But what if you are trapped in the ocean or lagging behind in the race just because the vehicle isn’t robust enough? All the fun gets ruined at once! And if you ask about sporting or professional riders, it’s the last thing they want.
In order to retain the fun and thrill, a robust engine is of the utmost necessity. And exactly there comes the name of Rotax.
One of the most popular ranges of Rotax has been their MAX EVO range. And in this article, we will find out whether the range is worth putting dollars into.
Rotax MAX EVO: An Overview
Rotax is one of the most popular manufacturers of internal combustion engines. Their strong two-stroke and four-stroke engines are used in a wide variety of vehicles. Starting from personal watercraft, airborne vehicles, or karts, Rotax engines can slay anywhere.
In December 2014, they launched the MAX EVO range. Every year, they are improving the versions more. However, before trusting Rotax with your money, it is better to look at the features of the range. In the section below, we will know the ultimate MAX EVO variants of Rotax and their features in detail.
125 Senior MAX EVO:
The first model that we are going to take up for discussion is the 125 Senior MAX EVO model. This one was launched back in 1997. But afterward, the manufacturers have included some additional features and improved the operational quality.
This one is claimed to perform the best within the non-gearbox class. The weight of the bare engine is 12 kg. And after assembling the complete power pack, it weighs somewhere around 23.1 kg.
This engine has a wheelbase of 1040mm and has been considered ideal for both leisure and racing purposes. The maximum torque provided is 21 Nm at 9,000 rpm. Also, the maximum output has been recorded as 22 kW per 30 hp at 11,500 rpm.
Pros:
- Smooth operation
- Cylinder with electronically-controlled exhaust valve
- Radiator
- Battery box included
- Carburetor
- Cable harness
Cons:
- It might be a little tricky to install
125 Junior MAX EVO:
This one is ideal for junior kart racers of twelve to fifteen years of age. The engine has been considered for national and international competitions and also for club and leisure purposes. Launched in 2000, this engine has not stopped amazing us with its fantastic features.
It has recorded its highest performance of 17 kW per 23 hp at 8,500 rpm, and it can provide the maximum torque of 19 Nm at 8,500 rpm. The bare engine weighs somewhere around 11.8 kg, and with all other power packages included, it weighs 23 kg.
The engine has a junior cylinder with an exhaust valve. Like the senior MAX EVO engine, this one also has a wheelbase of 1,040 mm in an overall calculation; the engine performs quite well.
Pros:
- Robust function
- Satisfactory fuel capacity
- Impressive torque of 19 Nm at 8,500 rpm
- Can go upto 87 mph speed
Cons:
- Acceleration rate could be improved
- Power switch might not work sometimes
125 MICRO MAX EVO MY20:
The next engine on our list is the 125 MICRO MAX EVO MY20 version. This one is for the young novice drivers who are just starting with kart racing. That means an age group of 8 to 11 years will be ideal for this engine.
It provides a torque of 10.8 Nm at 6,000 rpm and a maximum performance of 7 kW per 9.5 hp at 7000 rpm. The bare engine weighs somewhere around 11.8 kg, and after assembling the full powerpack, it weighs 21.5 kg. That is indeed a lightweight engine.
It has a junior cylinder without an exhaust valve so that the heat can be dispersed. This particular model has a wheelbase of 950 mm.
Pros:
- inlet restrictor
- radiator and exhaust appropriate for cadet chassis
- cable harness
- integrated on/off switch
- carburetor
- intake silencer
- restricted exhaust socket
Cons:
- fuel capacity could be improved
- Might not be ideal for the international race
125 MINI MAX EVO MY20:
This engine is just the improvised version of the 125 MICRO MAX EVO MY20 engine. This particular engine was launched in the year 2004. This one has been considered perfect for kids who are experienced in kart racing.
This one has a robust 13-hp operation. The highest output has been pointed at 9.6 kW per 13 hp at 7,500 pm. It weighs almost the same as the other three. A bare engine weighs 11.8 kg, and a power-packed one is measured somewhere around 21.6 kg.
This engine is appropriate for riders of 10 or 13 years of age and those who are aware of racing. Like the previous model, this one also has a wheelbase of 950 mm.
Pros:
- 950 mm wheelbase
- Lightweight
- Robust operation
- 13 hp engine
- Junior cylinder without exhaust valve
- Intake silencer
Cons:
- Top speed could be better with a 13 hp engine
- The integrated on/off/start switch might create an issue
FAQ:
- How fast does a Rotax 125 go?
Since the Rotax 125 range has different variations, the speed might differ. However, the engine range is measured between 55 to 75 mph on a general note. But the premium ones have recorded a pace of 87 mph if functioned without any restrictions and conditions.
- How fast does a 125cc dune buggy go?
The 125 cc kart generally ranges between 70 to 80 miles per hour. However, this speed depends utterly upon the weather conditions, the track, and definitely the rider’s choice.
- How long does a Rotax Max engine last?
First of all, a continuous operation for long hours might give you a taste of failure. And trust me, that is going to cost you a lot. Hence, prolonged runs are strictly out of the question. But a Rotax max engine will go beyond 40 hours if handled carefully.
- When did Rotax Evo come out?
Rotax Evo came out in 1997. Since then, the manufacturers have been improving the range here and there. And since December 2014, the MAX EVO variants have been released.
- How fast is a Junior Rotax?
As its name suggests, a junior Rotax is designed for young amateur riders. Hence, the speed limit has to be legitimate. Junior engines generally go at the top speed of 55 to 75 miles per hour.
Conclusion:
Rotax is undoubtedly one of the best manufacturers of engines. When it comes to recreational vehicle engines, people blindly trust this brand. And their newest addition to the list, namely the 125 MAX EVO range, has correctly done justice to the good name.
Most of the engine variants come with more or less similar operations. However, there are slight differences in horsepower, torque, and speed. The ECU unit for vibration control, cable harness, battery box, and the support plate are additional components that make the range suitable for riders.
However, each engine has its own flaws. If those minor disadvantages can be negotiated, the 125 MAX EVO range is worth giving a shot.